Check Or Key Controlled Patents (Class 49/35)
  • Patent number: 11920310
    Abstract: A bollard assembly is formed from a bollard that resides in a tubular socket. The socket has an internal core that is separated from the tube walls by annular recess. The lower end of the bollard is received within the recess. Lifting elements inside the bollard engage the upper surface of the core, and are internally biased in favor of extension. A locking system prevents extension of the lifting elements. When the locking system is unlocked, the pressure of the lifting elements against the core causes the bollard to rise out of and slightly above the socket, without external assistance. Once raised, the bollard may easily be removed from the site of the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Ameristar Perimeter Security USA Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Mills, Christopher M. Tabler, John D. Bell, Bradley M. Chandler
  • Patent number: 11636714
    Abstract: A computerized system for managing a parking lot includes: a beacon in one-way, or location sensor in two-way, communication with a smart device for locating the smart device without it having to determine its own location, a vehicle sensor for sensing the presence of a vehicle, and a computer-implemented server operable to determine from the beacon's identification or receive from the location sensor the location of the smart device. The server authorizes entry or exit of the vehicle when a smart device status indicates acceptance, and the smart device and the vehicle are both at a same appropriate location. The server updates the smart device status after a payment transaction. Entry or exit may be authorized by opening a barrier, displaying an authorization message, communicating a message to the smart device, and/or not issuing a non-authorization alert. The server may receive reservations, and may communicate lot occupancy to third-party systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: REEF GLOBAL IP LLC
    Inventors: Milan Zivkovic, Charles Arendt, Peter Poon, Michael Heyd, Zachary Taylor, Thomas Eaton, Danielle Leighton, Christoph Jan Sepp
  • Patent number: 10825116
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for accommodating parking requirements of a vehicle operator parking a vehicle at a parking spot, including: receiving, in a parking block assembly disposed in an egress area of a parking spot of a parking lot, authorized instructions from a mobile device of the vehicle operator to position a parking block in lowered position, positioning the parking block of the a parking block assembly in the lowered position, and wherein the authorized instructions are provided to the mobile device in advance and enable control of the parking block assembly only during a duration of a stay at the parking spot for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sumanth Kumar Mukundala, Adam Kuenzi
  • Patent number: 10787777
    Abstract: A parking gate barrier rod projecting system, the system comprising: a projection screen material attached to at least a portion of a parking gate rod and a projector. The projector is adapted to project digital content on the projection screen material. The digital content is adapted to be fitted on the front projection screen material to thereby allowing a person in a vehicle arriving at the parking gate rod to view the digital content. A sensor or a camera may detect when the parking gate barrier rod is opened and may send a control command to the projector to stop projecting or to darken the projecting in order to avoid dazzling of a person in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Inventor: Omri Kriezman
  • Patent number: 10703393
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an autonomous rail transport system with the aid of a rail network. The rail transport system according to the disclosure comprises at least one autonomous goods-carrying rail vehicle and at least two autonomous goods terminals. The goods-carrying rail vehicle is designed to transport at least one item of goods while the goods terminals are each designed to receive and/or release at least one item of goods. The item of goods is transported autonomously from a first goods terminal to a second goods terminal with the aid of the goods-carrying rail vehicle on the rail network. The rail network of the rail transport system according to the disclosure is a streetcar-line network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: David Longin, Mark Gijbels, Robin Celis
  • Patent number: 10352017
    Abstract: A manhole cover assembly removably supported by a manhole skirt or rim wherein when the manhole cover assembly is removed from the manhole skirt or rim an individual can access one or more components (e.g., underground fuel storage tank) through an opening in the manhole skirt or rim. Preferably, the manhole cover assembly is light weight and very strong so that there is little or no deflection of the cover of the manhole cover assembly when subjected to a predetermined load. Preferably, the manhole cover assembly is adapted for use in refueling stations to withstand the load placed thereon when a refueling tanker or other vehicle runs over the manhole cover assembly with little or no deflection of the cover of the manhole cover assembly. Preferably, the assembly forms a liquid tight seal with the manhole skirt to prevent liquid from passing into the storage area below the skirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: EMCO WHEATON RETAIL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew Steven Granger, James L. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 9938736
    Abstract: A barrier safety gate is provided which flexes and moves apart in order to receive the vertical path of motion of forks of a fork lift for loading and unloading from a raised platform. The barrier safety gate includes a first and a second pair of opening, flexible guidance members having a default, closed position and an opening, flexible path of motion. In particular, each pair of guidance members are laterally aligned to flex apart to receive the width of each respective fork of the fork lift which provides an opening force through their vertical paths of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventors: Carl L. Stover, Craig T. Jones, Dennis R. Weber
  • Patent number: 9934472
    Abstract: A parking reservation system for a parking lot provided with a plurality of parking spaces, comprising parking spaces for reservation to which reservation of user with reservation is set and is also available for user without reservation; and spare parking spaces which the user with reservation can use instead of the parking spaces for reservation when the parking spaces for reservation to which reservation of the user with reservation is set is used by the user without reservation, wherein a spare number setting section is provided for setting number of the spare parking spaces by using usage behavior relation information in relation to usage behavior at the parking lot of the user at least either of the user without reservation or the user with reservation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: DAITO SEISAKUSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Satoshi Kihara
  • Patent number: 9821953
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a vacuum tank door. The apparatus comprises a circular flange attached to a door panel of a vacuum tank, a horizontal crossbar connected to the center of the door panel and a lifting assembly. The lifting assembly comprises an upper linkage arm, a lower linkage arm, and a hydraulic cylinder. Activation of the hydraulic cylinder causes the linkage assembly to move downwards pulling on the horizontal crossbar and pulling the vacuum tank door towards the tank. Activation of the hydraulic cylinder also causes a connection point of the lower linkage arm and the upper linkage arm to move over-center of the connection between the lower linkage arm to the to the tank creating a tight seal between the vacuum tank door and the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Cody L. Sewell, David A. Bural
  • Patent number: 9279463
    Abstract: A pivot control mechanism selectively controls rotation of a pivot control shaft by an electric impulse from a solenoid, which locks the pawl into the ratchet, thereby permitting the shaft to rotate in a selected direction. When a passage direction is chosen, the cam followers move out of the home position of a lofted ratchet over the peak position to the next home position. Guiding pins controlling the axial motion of the lofted ratchet in conjunction with the compression springs secure the cam followers in the home position. A shock absorber acting on the cam is used to prevent the turnstile from over rotating with any great amount of force, softening the return of the cam followers to the home position. A micro switch, when activated, sends a signal to the control board, which through the action of the solenoid, locks the pawls into the ratchet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Inventor: George Jiri Balastik
  • Publication number: 20140013666
    Abstract: A door for a refrigerated trailer including a door pan formed of fiberglass reinforced plastic, the door pan having an inner surface and an outer surface. A door sheet is formed of fiberglass reinforced plastic and has an inner surface and an outer surface. A foamed plastic core is provided between the inner surfaces of the door pan and the door sheet. A housing is mounted between the inner surfaces of the door pan and the door sheet and is substantially encapsulated within the foamed plastic core. An automotive-style handle and locking mechanism is mounted to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Johnson Truck Bodies, LLC
    Inventors: Peter J. Johnson, John A. Marino
  • Patent number: 7845115
    Abstract: An access control apparatus has a blocking device (1) that is actuated by an actuator, and an authentication reader (7), upon reading a valid access authorization the blocking device (1) moving into the release position. For detecting a wheel chair (15) and/or pram in the area of the blocking device (1) a sensor (13) is provided, which does not activate the actuator for moving the blocking device (1) from the release position into the blocking position until the wheel chair (15) or pram has left its detection area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Skidata AG
    Inventors: Gregor Ponert, Kurt Wallerstorfer
  • Publication number: 20100107495
    Abstract: An electronically-activated roof access hatch is described that allows an operator to unlock the roof access hatch safely from the ground before ascending to the roof access hatch. The opening of the roof access hatch is controlled by a control panel that unlocks the roof access hatch and causes the roof access hatch to open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: William H. Bourgeois, Timothy Paul Salatich
  • Patent number: 7617974
    Abstract: Gate (1) including a vertical extended frame (2); at least one flap (3) which may be displaced between a closed position in which the flap prevents the passage of a person and an open position in which the flap permits the passage, elements for reading an access ticket, elements for controlling the displacement of the flap between the two positions, a lateral face to the frame (2), adjacent to the passage for the person provided with at least two rows of detector cells (C1-C33) cooperating with elements for preventing the opening of the flap when the cells detect an abnormal situation, one row of which extends to both sides of the flap above a line (L) situated at the mid-height of the frame and the other row is located close to the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Automatic Systems
    Inventors: Daniel Vandyck, François Royen, Hervé Gosselin
  • Patent number: 7587861
    Abstract: A security cover for an automatic gate arm protects against disengagement and removal of the gate arm for the purpose of unauthorized entry through the gate. The security cover comprises four walls and a top plate joined to form a housing that encloses a rotating turret and a portion of a drive arm used to actuate the gate. The security cover mounts over the turret using a vertical rod that extends from above the housing to a location within the drive mechanism of the gate arm motor, and a lock that secures the housing and prevents unauthorized tampering with the drive arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Bongard
  • Patent number: 7551995
    Abstract: An access system for a vehicle includes a gateway module that connects to the vehicle data bus, and an interface system coupled to the gateway module via a gateway bus. The interface system is also coupled to a ramp control subsystem that operates to stow and deploy a ramp for providing wheelchair access to the vehicle. A door control subsystem is coupled to the vehicle data bus and operates in response to data signals sent over the vehicle data bus. The gateway module is configured to relay signals relating to the status of the ramp from the gateway bus to the vehicle data bus to coordinate operation of the door and the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: The Braun Corporation
    Inventors: Keith D. Heigl, Justin C. Gilmore, Andrew L. Henseleit
  • Publication number: 20090031631
    Abstract: The invention relates to an automated closing system usable for passages or openings closed by a mobile structure, of the type comprising motor means, acting on said mobile structure, and means for limiting said motor, suitable to deactivate or modify the motion of said motor means in correspondence of the overcoming of a preset threshold value, wherein the system comprises means for temporarily deactivating said means for limiting the motor means, in order to allow, receiving a command, the movement of said mobile structure also in conditions of overcoming of said,threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: PRASTEL S.P.A.
    Inventors: Gian Luigi Baldini, Paolo Brini
  • Patent number: 7188578
    Abstract: A cover plate removal tool including an elongate solid unit having a hollow longitudinal track having an end portion including a cylindrical recess having an axis transverse to a longitudinal axis of said track. The cover plate removal tool also includes a plurality of solid pegs securable perpendicular within said track. The pegs are slidable back and forth within said track. The removal tool includes a solid cylindrical element having a lower portion proportioned to fill said cylindrical recess and further proportioned for complemental fit within said track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventor: Robert James DeRosa
  • Patent number: 6434985
    Abstract: A locking assembly is provided for a pivotally openable window or door security grille (14, 82) of a building. To unlock the security grille (14, 82), a user operates an electric punch key pad (52) to cause a solenoid rod (168) to disengage a depression (182) and the operates a handle (54) to cause an actuator support bracket (100) to pivot in a forward direction from a first reference location to a second reference location against the influence of a coil spring (132), whereby a catch surface (130) no longer engages against a shaft member (26) which is free to leave a lockable location and allow the security grille (14, 82) to be pivoted to an opened position, and whereafter a slidable pin (152) engages a depression (150) under the influence of a coil spring (156).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Exodus Innovations PTY Limited
    Inventor: Joseph Reginald Walmsley
  • Patent number: 6226924
    Abstract: A sliding door arrangement comprises a door which is slidably moved and is arranged to enclose an opening, a rail assembly coupled to the door allows the slidable movement of the door for opening and closing the opening and a securing mechanism which pulls the door inward so that the door engages the opening. The rail assembly has a rail system which is positioned at a top end and at a bottom end of the door and the rail system is mounted on a housing, a plurality of guides coupled to the door, the guides engage the rail assembly such that the door is slidable in a substantially horizontal direction. At least one shaft having a vertical axis is rotated about the vertical axis by the securing mechanism, the shaft has first end and a second end such that each end is respectively coupled to the rail assembly, the rail assembly has a rail system which is positioned at a top end and at a bottom end of the door and are mounted on a housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Degelman Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Danny Kuzub
  • Patent number: 6065900
    Abstract: As improved collapsible bollard is disclosed to control vehicular traffic. The present invention is comprised of a base that has at least one bore, a carriage having at least one bore that corresponds to the bore in the base. There is at least one impact release insert. The impact release insert is seated in the bore of the base. A fastening means is used to secure the impact release insert and the carriage to the base. A sleeve is removably fastened to the carriage. The sleeve has a free floating insert lock, a bias means, and a pulley system. The bias means of the sleeve is positioned to cause a downward bias against the free floating insert lock. The free floating insert lock is attached to the pulley system such that said pulley system is able to move the free floating insert lock in a direction that is opposite to the bias means. In the event the present invention is struck extremely hard, the sleeve will shear from base and the sleeve will typically be unharmed mechanically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: George Reale
  • Patent number: 5974737
    Abstract: A self-opening and self-closing device enabling entry into a controlled access area includes a gate with two laterally retractable panels that may be opened by inserting a ticket or access card into a control mechanism. Each of the panels is controlled by a respective motor operated by the control mechanism. Each panel is secured to at least two runner members that are each operated by a roller secured to a link arm. The link arms are rotationally interconnected and rotated by the respective motor. Simultaneous rotation of the arms in opposite directions moves the two panels together (or apart) and thus closes (or opens) the entry device by moving each panel into a position in which it is locked by the respective arm in the horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: CSEE Transport
    Inventors: Jose Barros, Claude Putteman
  • Patent number: 5961249
    Abstract: A lockable and removable barrier assembly (10) includes a post (32) which is removably mounted in a sleeve (12). The bottom end (32B) of the post is mounted in the top end (12A) of the sleeve such that a securing opening (14) of the sleeve is aligned with a securing opening (35) of the post. A securing mechanism (42) is located in the inner chamber (32C) of the post. The securing mechanism includes a securing lever (52) which is pivotably mounted at the bottom end (52B) to a mounting bracket (44). The lever includes a securing lug (58) which extends through a securing opening in the post and sleeve to secure the post in position in the sleeve. The top end (52A) of the lever is held in the secured position by a lock (60) which extends through a hole in the end of the lever and through a hole in the locking bracket (48) mounted on the sidewall of the post in the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Board of Trustees operating Michigan State University
    Inventors: Dennis R. Hansen, Clarence M. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5895169
    Abstract: A removable and collapsible barricade post assembly for the restriction of vehicular traffic. The barricade post assembly has a novel base assembly that allow the post assembly to be removed from its mounting bracket which is normally permanently affixed to the ground. Alternatively, the post assembly can remain attached to its mounting bracket while being lowered to allow the passage of vehicular traffic. The barricade post assembly has a number of security features to restrict the unauthorized removal or collapsing of the barricade post. A cover assembly to enhance security and to provide weather protection for the barricade post assembly is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Carl David Holm
    Inventors: Carl D. Holm, Kyle Anderson
  • Patent number: 5819471
    Abstract: A retractable post that can be raised and lowered and stored in retracted subsurface position such that the post will be out of the way. The post can be extended to an upright position and locked in that position by a specific lift, twist and set locking mechanism. The post is lowered by a specific lift, twist and lower sequence in a somewhat reverse order. The post is typically used with a sign such as no parking, handicap parking, area closed or other such uses. The retractable post is designed so the post can be lowered for area maintenance such as snow removal or for general closing and opening access to restricted area. In a simple configuration of the retractable post, the retractable post contains a housing, a sleeve stabilizer attached to a top of the housing, a post having an elongated flat surface, a locking notch, a turning groove and a stabilizing end, and a D-block. The D-block has a D shaped opening that interacts with the turning groove on the post to allow the post to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Gary Koerber
  • Patent number: 5775579
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a refuse airlock (10) for refuse bins or fuse containers, having a closable inlet (20) for introducing waste material and a closable outlet (30) for discharging the waste material, wherein the inlet (20) and the outlet (30) are not open at the same time, at least one controllable interlock is provided for the inlet (20) and/or outlet (30), a payment device is provided, which controls the interlock in dependence on a payment or cost calculation operation, the inlet (20) comprises a first closure device (22) which is (mechanically) connected to the outlet (30) and has a pivoting and/or sliding or slide closure, and the outlet (30) has a pivoting and/or sliding or slide closure (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: InnoRatio Aktiengesellschaft fur innovative umwelttechnische System i.Gr.
    Inventors: Iwe Kardum, Rudolf Ebner
  • Patent number: 5711110
    Abstract: A parking barrier permanently installed in vehicle parking surface, which has a base (20), with legs (22) embedded within the surface. A hinge plate (28) is attached to the base and allows the barrier to be rotated to a horizontal position permitting a vehicle to safely pass over the collapsed barrier. A channel shaped post (34) is pivotally attached to the hinge plate and a rigid strut (40) is retained on one end within the post and, on the other, to the hinge plate. The strut forms a right angle triangle with the post. A pull pin (46) holds the upper end of the strut in place and when removed, permits the barrier to be rotated horizontally removing the obstruction. A second, or electromechanical, embodiment utilizes a linear actuator (84) for the strut. An electronic controller (100) receives a signal through a coded radio frequency transmitter (102) and receiver (104) and, in turn, energizes the actuator to rotate the barrier into a horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Inventor: J. Marlis Williams
  • Patent number: 5639178
    Abstract: A vehicle barrier in which two arms (6, 10) linked by a linking member (14) are pivoted to a base structure (1) so that they collapse into a recess (5) in the structure to "open" the barrier. To close the barrier the arms are raised and may be latched and locked in place, the arms and structure preferably forming a triangular shape when erect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: George Fisher Castings Limited
    Inventors: Ian Wilson, Nicholas John Stewart White
  • Patent number: 5596841
    Abstract: A mailbox of the type having an elongated housing, a front closure pivotally mounted on a front end of the housing for depositing articles therein, a rear closure pivotally mounted on the rear end of the housing for removing articles from the mailbox, a signal device on the mailbox movable between a first and second position and a flexible cable, slidably disposed within a cable conduit, having one end connected to the front closure and the other end connected to the signal device for moving the signal device from a first position to a second position upon moving the front closure from a closed to an open position. Entry into the mailbox through the front closure raises the signal device indicating that the mailman has visited the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventors: Paul E. Gentry, Barbara J. Gentry
  • Patent number: 5554433
    Abstract: Horizontally hinged covers for use in ceiling/floors are provided which are highly fire resistant and which in the event of fire automatically close. The door preferably utilizes a multi-layer construction comprising an intumescent lower (inner) layer, an intermediate structural layer and a top (outer) layer of a cementitious material. The horizontally hinged door utilizes an automatic closing system in the event of fire comprising a fusible link which activates a pressurized gas source to close the door and which pressurized gas source is automatically purged when the door is closed to prevent explosion of the pressurized gas source. The fusible link also actuates (opens) a hydraulic valve to allow the flow of hydraulic fluid from a pneumatic/hydraulic housing which is used with a movable rod to open and close the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: The Bilco Company
    Inventors: Jerome F. Perrone, Jr., Duane W. Hipp
  • Patent number: 5520479
    Abstract: A removable post assembly for securing an area including basically four parts: an underground base member, a removable post member, a hinge assembly and a locking mechanism. The underground base member includes a housing that partially receives the post member and an anchorage assembly mounted to the housing assembly. The hinge assembly includes two leaves and one of them is pivotally mounted to the housing at a position substantially adjacent to the ground level. The locking mechanism locks the other hinge leaf to the removable post member. A cover is rigidly mounted to the post member so that it houses the locking mechanism thereby protecting it from tampering. The cover includes a bottom opening that permits a user to insert a key or otherwise release the locking mechanism. The bottom opening is sufficiently close to the ground level to prevent the introduction of any tampering tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Rigoberto Hernandez
  • Patent number: 5509754
    Abstract: The invention provides a device which includes a bracket to be firmly embedded in a driveway; and includes a post which is adapted to be slidably seated in the bracket in a vertical position to serve as an obstruction to passage of a motor vehicle from the driveway. An Ell-rod provided in the post is manually operable to interlock the post against removal from the bracket, and is adapted to be locked in the interlocked condition by a padlock. The ell-rod is manually operable upon removal of the padlock to release its interlocked condition so as to allow removal of the post from the bracket to enable vehicle passage over the driveway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventor: Simone Conigliaro
  • Patent number: 5481828
    Abstract: A security post for automobiles vertically disposed in the ground to allow or prevent access to a particular area. The post is manually withdrawn form the ground and secured in place with a securing bolt and lock. Guides on the post provide and easily slidable member within a sleeve that is disposed in the ground. A cover is provided for preventing the accumulation of dirt or other foreign particles on the top of the post and sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Andreas Kentrotas
  • Patent number: 5474017
    Abstract: A parking space holder including a plurality of telescoping sections that can be locked in an upright, extended position to block an entrance to a parking area or space. When unlocked, the space holder can be collapsed to a position generally flush with the parking surface to allow passage of a car. The user may use any number of the devices to designate a parking area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventors: Habib Mohebbi, Hamid Dadashzadeh
  • Patent number: 5470169
    Abstract: A device for locking a sliding body, such as a retractable road boundary-mark, in at least two predetermined positions towards which the device is urged by a controller. The device includes a locking rod extending parallel to a sliding axis of the sliding body and rotatable about a longitudinal axis thereof. The locking rod has a plurality of transverse notches whose number and mutual distance along the rod are equal to the number and the mutual distance of the predetermined positions and which are angularly spaced from each other about the longitudinal axis of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: Yvan Verra
  • Patent number: 5452964
    Abstract: A barrier for the protection of reserved areas including at least one upper element (1) rotatably mounted relative to a lower element (6) anchored in the ground (G). An elastic return spring (18) is interposed between the upper and lower elements (1,6). The upper element (1) is adapted to be displaced to either side of an upright reference position by rotating about a horizontal pin (2) provided on the lower element (6). A releasable mechanism selectively blocks rotation of the upper element in a first direction (F2) and a non-releasable mechanism blocks rotation of the upper element in the reverse direction (F1) at the end of a limited angular deflection. The elastic return spring provides a force opposing the limited deflection in the reverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Emile Trougouboff
  • Patent number: 5441359
    Abstract: A collapsible barrier for controlling vehicular access to parking areas and transitways, comprises a base and an elongated post hinged to the base. A first latch member fixed to the base engages a second latch member to secure the post in an upright obstructing position. The second latch member is located within the post and hinged to rotate about an axis parallel to the post hinge axis. An actuator, accessible from the exterior of the post, swings the second latch member in a direction to disengage it from the first latch member. A spring, operating in conjunction with camming surfaces on the latch members, provides for automatic reengagement when the post is rotated into the obstructing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: Filippi Brothers Inc.
    Inventor: George C. Filippi
  • Patent number: 5365695
    Abstract: Theft preventing means at a parking lot comprising a hindrance means (10, 30) raisable from a retired position and lockable in a raised position. The hindrance means comprises a tubular part (10) depressed into the ground at the parking lot, and a post (30) telescopically mounted therein. The post (30) has a slot (40) in which a catch (41) is pivotally mounted between an inner position, in which the catch is accommodated within the cross section of the post and an outer position in which the post is prevented from being pushed down in part (10), on the post. An opening (44) is arranged in the catch (41) for receiving the clamp of a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Inventor: Toivo Kjellberg
  • Patent number: 5333410
    Abstract: A barrier system works in conjunction with an automatic fee collection system to prevent persons from gaining entry to a fee-paid area without payment of the required fee. The barrier system includes a physical barrier that controllably blocks a passageway through which the person who attempts to gain access without payment must move. A barrier actuator controllably drives the physical barrier from the open to the closed position under the direction of a controller. The controller receives sensor signals that warn of an attempt to gain admission without payment, processes those signals through a logic that prevents unauthorized admission, guards against injury to persons by operation of the physical barrier, and permits exit through the barrier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Cubic Automatic Revenue Collection Group
    Inventor: Cyril F. Tetherton
  • Patent number: 5293716
    Abstract: A gate bar for a toll gate apparatus includes a tubular member surrounded by a sleeve of resilient material. The sleeve is protected by a sheath which may be painted to improve the visibility of the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: TDC Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandre M. Rothschild
  • Patent number: 5212909
    Abstract: A passage (1) with monitored authorization of access is provided with a closure device using a barrier (2) hinged about a vertical axis .gamma.. The passage includes at least one such barrier (2) with an end thereof situated adjacent to the vertical axis .gamma.. Rectilinear guides (6 to 9) guide the axis .gamma. along a line .DELTA. parallel to the through direction of the passage. The barrier is further provided with a hinged link (4) which is hinged firstly about a vertical axis .gamma..sub.1 situated along the barrier (2), and secondly about a vertical axis .gamma..sub.2 situated in the vicinity of the line .DELTA.. A drive system (10 to 13, 22 to 24) opens and closes the passage by causing the vertical axis .gamma. to slide along the line .DELTA.. The vertical axis .gamma. is situated at a distance l from the line .DELTA.. The length of the barrier (2) between the vertical axis .gamma. and the vertical axis .gamma..sub. 1 is equal to L. The passage is characterized in that the length L.sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: Compagnie Generale d'Automatisme CGA HBS
    Inventor: Claude Morin
  • Patent number: 5167093
    Abstract: A parking barrier apparatus for restricting ingress into and egress from a parking space is disclosed. The parking barrier includes an elongate, substantially planar base member adapted to be secured onto the ground of a parking space. An elongate carrying cover of is pivotally connected to the base member and movable from a first, upright position into a second, prone position. The carrying cover includes a substantially U-configured channel portion that is inverted and covers a portion of the base member when the carrying cover is upright. A barrier member is secured to the elongate cover and extends outward therefrom. A lock mechanism is secured within the channel of the carrying cover for engaging and locking the cover in the first, raised position. The lock mechanism remains substantially enclosed by the carrying cover and base member when the carrying cover is upright to prevent tampering with the lock mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Inventor: David M. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 5146710
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling access to a parking space which may utilize either a vehicle body or a tire access blocking barrier. In one embodiment a barrier is pivotally mounted on a parking space floor for movement between an upwardly extending and horizontal position. The barrier is held upright by a spring biased locking pin, which is retracted by a remote control by a vehicle driver to allow the barrier to fall to the horizontal position. Spaced forward and rear plates are pivotally mounted on the space floor and are connected by a bell crank linkage. So, when one plate is pivoted to the floor by a vehicle wheel driving over it, the other plate is pivoted to an upright position. A latch member is carried by the front plate which engages the barrier as the front plte is pivoted to the floor by wheel contact. The front plate and the engaged barrier are pivoted to an upright position when the vehicle backs out and pivots the rear plate to the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Inventor: Wesley A. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 5146711
    Abstract: In a security revolving door is provided (1) with a turnstile (2) rotatably through one passage sector (8) and one blocking sector (9), which turnstile can be turned into a defined resting position. An electronic control unit (28) with peripheral monitoring devices is provided to control a blocking device (14) releasing or blocking the rotation of the turnstile (2). The blocking device (14) consist of the simplest possible, identical individual parts, which can be simply adjusted or readjusted to different cases of application and modes of operation. This is achieved by the blocking device (14) having a blocking member (15) which is connected nonrotatably to the turnstile (2). The blocking member is provided with blocking cams (18, 19, 20), whose number corresponds to the number of the cross wings (4, 5, 6), and is associated with two electromagnetically controllable blocking elements (16, 17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Gallenschutz Metallbau GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Gallenschutz, Hermann Vogel, Erwin Hochstuhl
  • Patent number: 5056261
    Abstract: A turnstile system used to meter the entry of persons into or out of an area through a passageway includes a first cabinet defining one side of the passageway with a turnstile hub rotationally mounted in the first cabinet. The turnstile hub has an axis of rotation inclined at an angle of from about 38 to about 41 degrees from the vertical, most preferably at about 39 degrees from the vertical. A tripod of three turnstile arms of equal length extends from the hub with the arms lying along the edges of an equilateral pyramid having a pyramid apex that lies along the rotational axis of the hub. A second cabinet defining the other side of the passageway is spaced apart from the first cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Cubic Automatic Revenue Collection Group
    Inventor: Cyril F. Tetherton
  • Patent number: 5054237
    Abstract: A post is adapted to be raised to an active position in front of a vehicle being serviced from a pit beneath the vehicle, the post serving as a barrier to guard against injury and property damage in the event the vehicle suddenly lurches forwardly. After the vehicle has been serviced, the post may be lowered to a stored position in the pit to enable the vehicle to be driven forwardly from the service area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: Rockford Ornamental Iron Incorporated
    Inventors: Fred J. Kapala, Robert A. Kapala
  • Patent number: 5018902
    Abstract: Improved devices for controlling vehicular traffic are disclosed. The present invention permits the installation of collapsible bollards or posts to create a barrier to vehicular traffic. The bollards disclosed use an internal latch bar and a hinged connection allowing them to be collapsed using an ordinary fire hydrant wrench, thereby permitting access by fire and emergency vehicles to the areas protected by the bollards. Moreover, in the preferred embodiment, a novel spring-loaded latch bar, entirely contained within the bollard and protected from the elements, permits the bollards of the present invention to be reset in a locked position without the use of a hydrant wrench or other tools. Other embodiments disclose how the bollard may be re-locked without the use of tools when the bollard is returned to an obstructing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Trustees of University of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: James M. Miller, James A. Wargo
  • Patent number: 4964755
    Abstract: An improved cover lock apparatus comprises a rotatable and axially slidable crank plate connected to a plurality of retractable lock rods. The crank plate is disposed between the cover and a lock plate and is slidably and rotatably mounted to the lock plate. The crank plate has two upwardly protruding lock pins oriented to engage mating holes in the lock plate and is upwardly biased against the lock plate by a spring. When the lock pins are engaged in these holes, the crank plate cannot be rotated to retract the lock rods. Before the crank plate can be rotated to retract the lock rods, the lock pins must be disengaged from the mating holes in the lock plate by forcibly pushing down on the crank plate via a special lock key to overcome the spring bias that normally holds the crank plate pins in the engaged position. Once the crank plate is pushed downward enough to disengage the lock pins, it can be rotated to retract the lock rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignee: Lew-Mor, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. Lewis, Bert R. Moore
  • Patent number: 4858382
    Abstract: An articulatable barrier for selectively restricting access to a parking space, roadway, passageway or the like. The barrier includes a base and a barrier frame that is pivotally journaled through the base at a pivot axis for pivotal movement of the frame between a first obstructing position and a second nonobstructing position. The base has an aperture formed therein above the pivot axis. The frame carries a center bolt for movement of the bolt between a first lowered position and a second raised position. In the first lowered position, the bolt is received in the base through the aperture, for supporting the frame and for maintaining the frame in the obstructing position. In the second raised position, the bolt is spaced from the aperture and the base for permitting the pivotal movement of the frame. Means is provided for moving the bolt in a second raising direction, wherein the bolt is withdrawn from the base and the aperture being moved into the second raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Assignee: Samuel Blair
    Inventor: Gerard Ellgass
  • Patent number: RE33407
    Abstract: A revolving door and controls therefor are set forth to restrict access into a room to only authorized personnel. The revolving door is disposed in a housing having an entrance and an exit into the room. The revolving door includes a plurality of wings which, in cooperation with the housing, define a plurality of compartments movable in response to rotation of the door to transport a person between the entrance and exit through the housing. Included are means for identifying authorized personnel and driving the door for rotation to transport that authorized person in a selected compartment between the entrance and the exit. Means are included for sensing two or more persons in the selected compartment moving from a starting point between the entrance and the exit, the sensing means reversely rotating the door to return the selected compartment to the starting point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Inventor: Milan Schwarz